Ode to August: Forward

Wherein we had a gorgeous rainbow; a tornado touch down in B'ville and subsequent tornado warning that sent us to the basement; tranquil moments at the lake; finished a 6 wk course (while working both a f/t and p/t job); reflected on my endurance over the last 5 years. Evenings on the deck are what's grounding me these days. Grateful to see a few meteors this month.  An unexpected shift in the workplace that has elevated the overall vibe. A beautiful postcard arrived from a dear friend! A new classical album, "Solos" by composer, Bryce Dessner, dropped, and I treated myself on iTunes. Despite this month being the anniversary of our family tragedy, there were moments of laughter. One of the best laughs was being called a "Flaming Liberal" by a pastor, at which I thanked him for the complement (I want that on a shirt). Feeling more hopeful about November, and the future in general. Forward!

and that's when I went inside

Evenings with Amelia Hummingbird

Portal

Petra

Birdmoss

The funniest excuse!

Ode to July: Beholding

There is a way of beholding nature which is a form of prayer, a way of minding something with such clarity and aliveness that the rest of the world recedes. - Diane Ackerman

Wherein there was grilled peach and burrata sandwiches, a visit from Amelia Earhart Hummingbird.  Swoon-worthy sunsets and Gochujang Potato.  And a moth party at the arboretum, and a much needed haircut. 

Grilled Peach & Burrata

Gochujang

Irish Cheddar & Honey Goat Cheese

Cinder casting spells

Ode to June: Deep Attention

We can't enchant the world, which makes its own magic; but we can enchant ourselves by paying deep attention. - Diane Ackerman

Wherein there was much blooming, a goldfinch, a zebra swallowtail, a mantis and fox!  The kind psych nurse where I work remembered my quest for smoked mozzarella and he spotted some at his market and brought me some for my pizza making.  I went to an art installation in the Ginkgo grove with a friend, and had a firefly picnic with 3 Mighty Girl Alums.  There were gorgeous skies, a rainbow, ice cream, sadly a drought for the second year in a row. 

Cinder's Toe Beans

Wormwood and petunias

St. John's Wort

Smoked Mozzarella Pizza

Rest in power, little lady.